My Honest Thoughts on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action
After over a decade spent putting gear through its paces in everything from dusty workshops to rigorous field tests, I’ve learned to recognize genuine quality and thoughtful design. So when I needed an upgrade for my Mossberg International 817, focusing on enhanced ergonomics and stability for prairie dog hunting, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action immediately caught my eye. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has a solid reputation, and this particular stock promised a blend of modern features with traditional craftsmanship. My existing factory stock, while functional, lacked the precise control and comfortable handhold I desired for extended shooting sessions. I’d briefly considered a more utilitarian synthetic option, but the allure of a beautifully finished hardwood stock with a thumbhole design felt like the right direction for improving both accuracy and the shooting experience. Upon receiving it, my initial impression was one of solid, reassuring weight and a beautifully smooth finish; it simply felt right in my hands.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing grounds for this stock were the familiar prairie dog towns scattered across eastern Montana. I swapped out the factory stock on a crisp spring morning, eager to see how the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action would perform under actual field conditions. The installation was straightforward, fitting snugly onto my short-action receiver. The real test began with the first few shots; the thumbhole design immediately provided a more stable shooting platform, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and better control over the rifle’s natural tendency to recoil. Even with dusty conditions prevalent, the smooth hardwood finish proved surprisingly easy to wipe down, and the stock maintained its integrity without any warping or swelling despite a light morning dew.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of a busy hunting season, this Boyds stock became an indispensable part of my rifle setup. I used it for countless hours of scanning the horizon, braced in various field positions, and during extended shooting sessions at targets. The durability has been exceptional; there are no significant scuffs or cracks, even after being set down on rocky terrain a few times (a testament to both the hardwood and careful handling). Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth and a light polish with wood conditioner keeps it looking new. Compared to other aftermarket stocks I’ve used over the years, this one stands out for its robust construction and consistent performance. It hasn’t shown any signs of loosening or developing play, which can be a common issue with less well-made stocks.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action is crafted from select hardwood, providing a significant upgrade in both strength and aesthetics over typical polymer or basic wood stocks. It’s specifically designed for the Mossberg Model International 817 short action with a detachable box magazine. The “Varmint Thumbhole” designation signifies its ergonomic intent: a pronounced thumbhole for improved grip and a wider forend for stability on rests or bags. The stock features a slanted cheek rest that is a unique design element, intended to offer a more traditional hunting stock feel when needed, though its rotation mechanism is fairly subtle. Its overall construction aims to add rigidity without excessive weight, a crucial balance for rimfire varmint hunting where portability and consistent accuracy are paramount.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary job – providing a stable and ergonomic platform for the Mossberg International 817 – this stock excels. The thumbhole grip offers a very secure and consistent hand position, which translates directly into better shot placement. The Varmint profile forend is broad and flat, making it ideal for resting on sandbags or shooting sticks, significantly reducing the variables that can affect accuracy. While the advertised “slanted cheek rest” rotation isn’t a dramatic shift, the overall cheek weld is comfortable and repeatable. The detachable box magazine inletting is precise, ensuring smooth magazine changes without any snagging or play, which is critical during fast-paced varmint hunting. It met and largely exceeded my expectations for a replacement stock in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Boyds stock is a clear highlight, blending traditional wood craftsmanship with modern ergonomic concepts. The hardwood construction feels substantial and premium, with a smooth, consistent finish that invites your hand. The thumbhole is generously sized, accommodating a wide range of hand sizes without feeling cramped, and it encourages a relaxed, firm grip. The pistol grip portion is well-contoured, offering excellent comfort for extended periods. The forend’s width is ideal for stability, and its subtle contours ensure it’s not overly bulky. While not heavily checkered, the natural texture of the wood provides adequate grip, even with gloves on.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the materials used, this hardwood stock is built for longevity. The select hardwood is dense and resilient, less prone to cracking or splintering than softer woods or some synthetic materials. The finish is durable and resistant to minor scratches, although deep gouges would, of course, be visible. Maintenance is refreshingly simple: regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of a quality wood stock polish or wax is all that’s needed to maintain its appearance and protection. There are no obvious points of failure; the inletting is clean, and there are no loose parts or adhesives that seem likely to degrade over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
As a replacement stock, the primary “accessory” is the stock itself, replacing the factory unit. However, Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks offers various finish options and sometimes even custom laser engraving, allowing for a degree of personalization. For this specific model, the main functional aspect is its precise inletting for the Mossberg International 817 short action and its detachable box magazine. This precise fit means you don’t need any special adapters or complex fitting; it’s designed to work seamlessly with the existing rifle components. While not an accessory, the smooth, consistent finish itself acts as a protective layer that reduces the need for additional coatings.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action
Pros
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The thumbhole design provides a significantly more stable and comfortable shooting grip compared to standard pistol grips.
- Improved Stability: The Varmint profile forend is wider and flatter, offering excellent support when shooting from bags or rests.
- Premium Feel: The select hardwood construction offers a beautiful aesthetic and a solid, reassuring feel in the hands.
- Precise Inletting: The stock is designed for a snug fit, ensuring the detachable box magazine and action are well-seated.
- Durable Finish: The factory finish is robust and holds up well to typical field use, with easy maintenance.
Cons
- Weight: While not excessively heavy, it is noticeably denser than a hollow polymer stock, which could be a consideration for extreme lightweight builds.
- “Rotating Cheek Rest” Subtlety: The advertised rotating cheek rest is a minor feature with a less pronounced effect than one might expect, offering only a slight adjustment.
- Price Point: At $189.00, it’s an investment, placing it above many basic synthetic replacements.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action?
This stock is an excellent choice for dedicated rimfire varmint hunters and shooters who spend significant time on the range with their Mossberg International 817. If you appreciate the tactile feedback and aesthetic appeal of a well-finished hardwood stock, and you’re looking to improve your shooting stability and accuracy, this is a strong contender. It’s particularly well-suited for those who often shoot from elevated rests, bipods, or sandbags, as the Varmint forend truly shines in these scenarios.
Those looking for the absolute lightest rifle possible or who prefer the utilitarian, all-weather durability of pure synthetic materials might want to look elsewhere. It’s also worth noting that if your primary use case is tactical or requires extreme concealment and resistance to all weather without care, a different material might be more appropriate. For enhanced accuracy and comfort on a classic platform, however, this Boyds stock is hard to beat. Consider pairing it with a good quality bipod or shooting mat for maximum benefit.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Moss International 817 17HMR Detachable Box Mag Short Action is a significant upgrade for any Mossberg International 817 owner looking to enhance both the performance and aesthetics of their rifle. It delivers on its promise of improved stability and a more comfortable shooting experience, thanks to its thoughtful ergonomic design and robust hardwood construction. For its price of $189.00, the value is certainly present, offering a level of fit, finish, and functionality often found in much more expensive custom stocks. I would absolutely recommend this stock to any serious rimfire varmint shooter who values accuracy, comfort, and the classic appeal of a finely crafted hardwood piece. It transforms the handling of the rifle, making it a more enjoyable and effective tool for a day in the field.